Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2024-2025

Module THMN49960: Dissertation

Department: Theology, Ministry and Mission

THMN49960: Dissertation

Type Open Level 4 Credits 30 Availability Available in 2024/2025 Module Cap None.

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • to produce a sustained piece of theological reflection on a topic related to mission and ministry.

Content

  • The subject of the dissertation must be the subject of a written proposal and be formally agreed by the Course Director of the appropriate institution and the Board of Studies for the institution.
  • The subject of the dissertation should be related to the interface between the theological tradition and the practice of Christian mission and ministry.
  • In general, the dissertation should:
  • be relatively narrow in scope, aiming at depth of analysis rather than breadth of coverage;
  • have a clearly defined methodology;
  • be clear, well-written, and orderly in arrangement;
  • present the results of a well-organised investigation;
  • show a thorough knowledge of major primary sources;
  • show an awareness of secular as well as Christian reflection and analysis of the subject
  • show the capacity to evaluate the secondary sources
  • A separate Handbook is provided on the practicalities of formulating a dissertation proposal and also for rulings about the relationship between the dissertation and other elements of the course.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Proficiency and expertise in the chosen area of the dissertation.
Subject-specific Skills:
    Key Skills:
    • to develop the skills of research, study and reflection required in a sustained piece of work.
    • The integration of different elements of learning which form part of the MA.

    Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

    • A course taught over two days on key skills in research, IT and presentation skills.
    • Normally four supervision sessions with a supervisor appointed by the Course Director.

    Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

    Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Dissertation Component Weighting: 100%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    Dissertation 15000 words 100%

    Formative Assessment:

    Feedback to students will comprise comments on draft proposals from the course directors and individual supervision from the supervisor appointed for the dissertation.


    Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University